Speed cameras operating in 'SafeZone' on I-70 at Conococheague bridge

The first SafeZones Automated Speed Enforcement system in a Washington County work zone has gone into effect along Interstate 70 at the Conococheague Creek as part of the bridge replacement project over the creek, between Exit 24 to Greencastle Pike and Exit 18 to Clear Spring.

The cameras began operating on Nov. 7, according to a release from the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA).

The system is currently in a 21-day warning period, which will end Wednesday, Nov. 28, when violations will begin to result in citations.

The speed limit in the work zone will be 55 mph, down from the usual 65 mph, and motorists going 12 mph or more over the speed limit will face a $40 civil citation.

Mobile enforcement vehicles rotate among different eligible work zones that are part of Maryland SafeZones. Signs are placed along the interstate to warn motorists of automated speed cameras.SafeZones officially were launched in 2010.

The I-70 bridge over Conococheague Creek rehabilitation project is a $16.5 million two-year project designed to extend the bridge’s life by another 30 to 50 years. Each side of the bridge is being widened by 21 feet to include inner shoulders and allow room for the possibility of adding another lane in the future.

The I-70 bridge over Md. 63, known as Greencastle Pike, a mile east of the Conococheague Creek, is undergoing a similar project, and eventually the SafeZones area will include both work zones, according to the SHA.